The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J. Rose: Book Review
Looks Like Books contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclaimer to learn more.
The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams by M.J. Rose blends historical fiction, mystery, romance, and a touch of the mystical in a dual-timeline story that moves between 1940s Paris and 1980s New York.
It kept me turning the pages until the wee hours of the morning as the lives of two women, separated by decades, slowly began to connect through war, secrets, extraordinary jewelry, and a mysterious gift that ties the past to the present.
My Take: The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams hit a lot of my favorite historical-fiction buttons: a dual timeline, Paris during WWII, strong female characters, mystery, romance, and a real historical figure woven into the story. I especially loved the jewelry angle and the way Suzanne Belperron’s real-life history added depth to the novel. My Verdict? Read. Especially if you enjoy historical fiction based around real people and a touch of mystery.
What The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams Is About
The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams moves between Nazi-occupied Paris in the 1940s and New York in 1986.
In Paris, renowned jeweler Suzanne Belperron becomes involved in efforts to help Jewish families escape France while the danger surrounding her business partner, Bernard Herz, grows increasingly serious.
Decades later, auction appraiser Violine Duplessi is asked to examine objects from a wealthy family estate. Among them is an old Louis Vuitton trunk filled with remarkable jewelry — and Violine’s unusual ability to sense an object’s past begins revealing troubling fragments of history.
As she tries to uncover where the jewels came from and what happened to the people connected to them, the story gradually ties the two timelines together through secrets, loss, romance, and wartime survival.
The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams – What I Liked
The Setting: The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams is set in a dual timeframe, which is one of my favorite formats for historical fiction books. From the historically rich streets of 1940s Paris to the vibrant pulse of 1980s New York. M.J. Rose masterfully recreates these eras, enveloping the reader in a world where past and present intertwine seamlessly, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The Characters: The characters in this novel are crafted with exceptional realism and depth. Suzanne Belperron, a real-life jeweler, is more than just a character; she’s a bridge between fiction and history, lending the story an air of authenticity. Her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, as do the experiences of Violine Duplessi, the young auctioneer. Their genuine personalities and complex emotions make them relatable and their journeys captivating.
The Plot/Storylines: M.J. Rose’s storytelling is a tapestry of intrigue, romance, and historical depth. The plot weaves through the challenges of love, the dangers of war, and the allure of mystery, all while being punctuated with detailed descriptions of exquisite jewelry. The inclusion of Suzanne Belperron’s historical legacy adds a layer of intrigue and educational value, as readers not only lose themselves in the story but also gain knowledge about a fascinating figure in the history of jewelry design.
The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams – What I Didn’t Like
To be honest, there isn’t anything that I disliked about this book. M.J. Rose’s novel is a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable experience. However, it’s worth noting that every reader’s taste is different, and what resonates with one may not resonate with another. Some might find the detailed descriptions of jewelry and the intertwining of historical facts with fiction less appealing, depending on their personal preferences.
The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams – Read, ReRead, or Reconsider?
Read.
Is The Jeweler Of Stolen Dreams by M.J.Rose Worth Reading?
Yes. The Jeweler of Stolen Dreams is a masterful blend of historical fiction, mystery, and romance. The novel’s vivid settings, authentic characters, and intricately woven plot create an immersive reading experience. Rose’s skillful integration of the real-life jeweler Suzanne Belperron into the narrative adds a unique historical depth, complemented by the enchanting descriptions of jewelry. In my opinion, this book is a near-perfect read, especially for those who appreciate a mix of historical facts and fiction. Overall, this novel is a testament to Rose’s ability to craft a story that not only entertains but also enlightens, making it a highly recommended read.
If you enjoy historical fiction as much as I do, you will likely love this book too. I highly recommend it, especially if you like books that are based on real historical people. A bonus for you if you also love jewelry, as this book is based on the real-life jeweler Suzanne Belperron.
